The Big Backyard Plan is an energetic rhyming story about kids with a creative plan to join their backyards together. They run into some hurdles as they set about their plan but ultimately, by proving the worth of co-operative outdoor spaces, they convince their parents to make some changes.

What I love about this story is its fast pace rhyme—it rolls off the page, is a pleasure to read aloud and suits the lively characters and fun subject matter.  The story is sweet and also thoughtful. It draws attention to the different ways in which people use their backyards—for growing food, for looking after pets, for fun in the pool—and has a subtle message about sharing and saving resources that is interesting for both adults and children to contemplate. This makes it particularly good for teachers looking for stories that touch on sustainability.

The artwork by Laura Stitzel is a delight to look at. The kaleidoscope of colours emphasises the energy of kids at play and the happy tone and ending of the story. Indeed, the bright tints never fade much, even when things don’t go to plan immediately. We see the kids experience of low and high emotions in their body language and facial expressions which can be useful for readers to explore with regard to how feelings affect us.

A big backyard plan might not be possible for all families, but this wonderful picture book will encourage all kids to think creatively about how they can make changes in their own environments in the interests of fun and sustainability.